Soaring temperatures and dry conditions put firefighters on alert.
Firefighters are on high alert as parts of southern Queensland brace for abnormally warm temperatures and dry conditions in the coming days.
We urge residents across the south-east and south-west areas of the state to be vigilant, with very high fire danger levels expected as a result of predicted weather conditions.
Our firefighters are prepared and ready, but we also need the community to take extra care and be alert in coming days as warm temperatures combined with low humidity create dangerous fire conditions.
There is a lot of vegetation out there, particularly in those areas affected by ex Tropical Cyclone Debbie.
On top of this, recent severe frosts, particularly in the Scenic Rim, have dried out grasslands significantly.
Under these conditions, unattended or mismanaged fires may create sparks and cause fires to spread quickly, so we are asking people to be on the lookout and report any vegetation fires to Triple Zero (000) immediately.
Any landowner planning to light fires to reduce fuel on their property must first contact their local Fire Warden to obtain a permit.
Under heightened fire conditions, it only takes one unauthorised burn to get out of hand to threaten lives and properties.
The Permit to Light Fire system is in place to ensure it is conducted in the right conditions, while permit holders must also notify their neighbours and the First Officer of their local Rural Fire Service brigade before lighting a fire.
Tough penalties apply for people who light fires without a permit. Anyone ignoring correct procedures is endangering them selves, their neighbours and properties.
With the potential for increased fire activity, it is crucial residents prepare their homes and properties now.
If you haven't already you are urged to finalise your preparations and visit the Rural Fire Service website to download a Bushfire Survival Plan so that no-one is caught off guard.
For more information on bushfire season preparation, local fire wardens or Bushfire Survival Plans, visit www.ruralfire.qld.gov.au
ruralfire.qld.gov.au
Select your Local Government area below to see if there is a current fire ban, incident or to locate your Neighbourhood Safer Places.
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UPDATE ON SEVERE WEATHER EVENT
We are actively keeping an eye on our community and local roads. With this weather please stay inside. If you must drive then please, please turn headlights on. We have seen far too many cars getting around without their lights on.
Conditions are dangerous, roads have lots of water on them, large pools of water from clogged drains and debris. Roads are flooding and receding quickly, the conditions are rapidly changing. Please stay inside and be safe.
Call 000 for emergencies, 132 500 for SES and 13 19 62 for Energex.
SEVERE WEATHER ALERT EX TC DEBBIE
The forecast is predicting inexcess of 300mm of rain in the Gold Coast hinterland. In the wake of cyclone Debbie, South East Queensland is expecting their own severe weather event.
Beginning early Thursday we can expect in excess of 300mm rain and wind gusts over 100kph until Friday night. The Tamborine Mountain Rural Fire Brigade will be on standby for our community. This is a good time to prepare your emergency kits and stock up on nonperishables. Have medications ready.
Please stay off the roads unless necessary. If it's flooded forget it! Please secure loose objects in your yards. Watch for fallen powerlines. Check on your neighbours.
Call 000 for emergency situations. To report fallen powerlines call Energex 131962. If your home is inundated or damaged call SES 132500.
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